First-Principles Study of Electronic Transport Properties of Dodecahedrane C20H20 and Its Endohedral Complex Li@C20H20

The charge transport properties of the dodecahedrane C20H20 molecule and its endohedral complex Li@C20H20 are studied using density functional nonequilibrium Green's function method. Their zero bias equilibrium conductances and characteristics of current-voltage curves are first determined. The I-V curves under finite bias voltage confirm that the electrical conductivity will be improved by inserting the Li atom into the C20H20 molecule, The present results also show that the hydrogen atoms outside of the molecule are not beneficial to the electronic transport. Some potential applications of these two molecules are suggested.